Mauritius Public Tender for Sale of Abandoned and Unclaimed Goods

Official Notice: Sale of Abandoned and Unclaimed Goods by Public Tender in Mauritius

The Mauritius Revenue Authority (MRA) has issued an official notice regarding the upcoming sale of abandoned and unclaimed goods through a public tender process. This initiative aims to facilitate the disposal of goods that have been left unclaimed or abandoned within customs premises, providing an opportunity for interested bidders to acquire these items via an organized online auction.

Scope and Purpose of the Notice

This notice serves to inform the general public and potential bidders about the details of the upcoming auction scheduled from 3rd to 10th July 2024. The auction encompasses various general goods that have been held in customs custody without claims from their owners. The primary objective is to ensure transparency and efficiency in the disposal process, while offering a fair opportunity for participation in accordance with the legal framework governing customs and auction procedures in Mauritius.

Details of the Auction Process

Registration and Access

Prospective bidders who are not yet registered must complete their registration via the Mauritius Revenue Authority’s Online Auction System, accessible through the official website under the ‘E-SERVICES’ section. Registration is mandatory to participate in the bidding process. The online platform facilitates the viewing of items, submission of bids, and management of auction activities in a secure digital environment.

Items for Sale and Viewing Arrangements

The auction features a variety of general goods, with detailed descriptions and photographs posted on the online platform starting from 09:00 hours on 3rd July 2024. The goods will be displayed physically at the Customs Warehouse located at Lux Shed, Mer Rouge. Viewings are scheduled on specific dates and times:

• Wednesday 3 July 2024 to Friday 5 July 2024, and Monday 8 July 2024 to Tuesday 9 July 2024, from 09:00 to 15:45 hours
• Saturday 6 July 2024, from 09:30 to 12:00 hours
• Wednesday 10 July 2024, from 09:00 to 12:00 hours

Note that no viewings will take place on Sunday, 7 July 2024.

Bidding Procedure and Deposit Requirements

All bids must be submitted electronically through the online auction platform. For items requiring a bid deposit, bidders must provide a deposit equivalent to at least 10% of their bid value. The deposit should be paid via a Banker’s Cheque, drawn in favour of the Director-General, Mauritius Revenue Authority, and deposited in the designated tender box at the Customs Warehouse before the bidding deadline. Personal cheques are not accepted.

Each Banker’s Cheque must be enclosed in an envelope clearly indicating the bidder’s name and the specific items for which the deposit is intended. This process ensures transparency and security in the bidding process.

Access and Identification for Visitors

All visitors wishing to view the goods in person are required to carry valid identification, such as an Identity Card, to gain access through the Port Main Gate. This measure helps maintain security and proper control over the viewing process.

Legal and Administrative Context

This auction is conducted in accordance with the applicable legal provisions governing customs and auction procedures in Mauritius, notably under the Customs Act and related regulations. The process aligns with the government’s broader initiative to promote digital services and transparency in public transactions, leveraging the online auction platform for efficiency and accessibility.

Conclusion

The Mauritius Revenue Authority’s notice underscores the government’s commitment to transparency and proper management of abandoned and unclaimed goods. Interested bidders are encouraged to register early, review the items available for auction, and participate actively within the stipulated dates. This initiative offers a valuable opportunity for individuals and businesses to acquire goods at potentially advantageous prices, while supporting the effective clearance of unclaimed items from customs custody.